Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti: Daughter Appeals to Bring His Mortal Remains Back from ‘Exile’
On the 128th birth anniversary of ChandraBose”>Renkoji Temple, where they have been lying for the past eight decades.
Pfaff highlighted that successive Indian governments either “hesitated or refused” to repatriate Bose’s remains, despite the readiness of the Japanese government and the temple priests.“For decades most Indian governments hesitated – or refused – to welcome his mortal remains back home. The priests of Renkoji Temple and the Japanese government were ready, willing and eager to let his remains return to his motherland,” she said in a press statement.
The mystery surrounding Netaji’s death has been a subject of intense debate for decades. According to documents declassified by the Narendra Modi government in 2016, successive administrations believed that bose died in an air crash on August 18, 1945, in Taihoku (now Taipei, Taiwan). However, they never publicly acknowledged this assessment, fearing a public backlash.
A Cabinet note from February 6, 1995, signed by then Home Secretary K Padmanabaiah, stated: “There seems to be no scope for doubt that he died in the air crash of 18th August 1945 at Taihoku. Government of India has already accepted this position. there is no evidence whatsoever to the contrary.”
Pfaff acknowledged the lingering hope among many, including family members, that bose might have survived the crash. Though, she emphasized that the declassified documents, including 11 investigation reports, confirm his death. “We must accept he died on that day, following an airplane crash on take-off in Taipei, Taiwan,” she said.
The reluctance to acknowledge Bose’s death was evident in 1992 when then Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao had to withdraw his proclamation to award a Bharat Ratna to Netaji posthumously, following criticism that it amounted to confirming his death.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Netaji on Parakram Diwas, calling him an “epitome of courage and grit.” In a tweet,modi said,“Today,on Parakram Diwas,I pay homage to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. His contribution to India’s freedom movement is unparalleled. He epitomised courage and grit. His vision continues to motivate us as we work towards building the India he envisioned.”
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also honored Netaji by recalling his iconic slogan, “Tum mujhe khoon do, mein tumhe azadi dunga” (You give me blood, I will give you freedom). CM Yogi noted that the slogan became a mantra for the people during the freedom struggle.
As India commemorates Netaji’s legacy, Pfaff’s plea serves as a poignant reminder of the unresolved chapter in the life of one of India’s most revered freedom fighters.
| Key Details | |
|——————|-|
| Event | Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti (Parakram Diwas) |
| Date | January 23, 2025 |
| Appeal by | Anita Bose Pfaff (Netaji’s daughter) |
| Location of Remains | Renkoji Temple, Tokyo, Japan |
| Declassified Documents | Confirmed death in air crash on August 18, 1945 |
| government stance | Successive governments hesitated to repatriate remains |
Pfaff’s heartfelt request to bring Netaji’s remains back to India resonates deeply, urging the nation to honor its hero by ending his ‘exile’ and giving him a final resting place in his motherland.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti: Expert Insights on the Call to Repatriate His Remains
on the 128th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, celebrated as parakram Diwas on January 23, 2025, his daughter Anita Bose Pfaff appealed to the Indian goverment to bring back her father’s mortal remains from Japan’s Renkoji Temple. To shed light on this emotional appeal and the ancient context, we spoke with Dr. Rajesh Verma, a renowned historian and expert on India’s freedom struggle.
The Importance of Parakram Diwas
Senior Editor: Dr. Verma, could you explain the importance of Parakram Diwas and why Netaji’s legacy continues to resonate today?
Dr. Rajesh Verma: Parakram Diwas, or the Day of Valor, is a tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s extraordinary courage and leadership in India’s fight for independence. His fearless determination and iconic slogan, “Tum mujhe khoon do, mein tumhe azadi dunga,” inspired millions. Even today, his vision of a free and united India remains a guiding force for the nation.
Anita Bose Pfaff’s Appeal
Senior Editor: What is your perspective on Anita Bose Pfaff’s request to bring Netaji’s remains back to India?
Dr. Rajesh Verma: Ms.Pfaff’s appeal is deeply emotional and symbolic.For over eight decades, Netaji’s remains have been in exile at Renkoji Temple in Tokyo. Repatriating them would not only honor his sacrifice but also provide closure to his family and the nation. It’s a poignant reminder that Netaji’s story remains unfinished in the hearts of many Indians.
The Mystery Surrounding Netaji’s death
Senior Editor: There’s been much debate about Netaji’s death. What do the declassified documents reveal?
Dr. Rajesh Verma: According to the documents declassified in 2016, netaji died in an air crash on August 18, 1945, in taihoku, now Taipei, Taiwan. These documents, including 11 investigation reports, provide conclusive evidence. Though, the lack of an official acknowledgment by successive governments has fueled persistent theories and speculation.
government’s Reluctance to Repatriate
Senior Editor: Why have Indian governments hesitated to bring back Netaji’s remains?
Dr. Rajesh Verma: The reluctance stems from a mix of political caution and public sentiment. Many still hold onto the belief that Netaji survived the crash, and acknowledging his death could spark controversy. For example, in 1992, Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao had to retract the proposal to award Netaji the Bharat Ratna posthumously due to public outcry.
The Road Ahead
Senior Editor: What steps should be taken to address this issue moving forward?
Dr. rajesh Verma: The indian government must take decisive action to repatriate Netaji’s remains with the dignity he deserves. This would involve formal diplomatic engagement with Japan,clear communication with the public,and a ceremonial tribute to honor his legacy. It’s time to end this chapter and give Netaji a rightful place in his motherland.
Conclusion
As we commemorate Parakram Diwas, Anita Bose Pfaff’s appeal underscores the enduring legacy of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Dr. Rajesh Verma’s insights remind us of the historical significance of repatriating his remains and the need to honor our freedom fighters with the respect they deserve. Let us hope that Netaji’s journey home finally concludes, bringing closure to a story that has shaped the soul of modern india.
